Fireman Ed

Ed Anzalone steps down as Fireman Ed but not as a
Jets fan. Take a look back.

Anzalone said barbs from unruly fans have become a common occurence, with many people under the mistaken impression that he's on the Jets' payroll. Because of this, he no longer will attend Jets games as Fireman Ed.

"Listen, I went through the Rich Kotite era -- we were 4-28 in that era. Any Jets fan knows this isn't the worst of times; it isn't close," Anzalone told Metro, making a fair point. "It's been about the nastiness. I just think society in general -- you're out in your car, there's no respect at all. I don't want to put up with that from people taking it out on me anymore."

Anzalone said he'll continue to attend Jets home games, but he plans to move to a different section and retire the Fireman Ed persona. For decades, Anzalone has led the famous "J-E-T-S Jets, Jets, Jets" chant at the Meadowlands.

"I'm sure there will be somebody else that takes over," he said. "I wasn't the originator of the chant and I won't be the last one. It's got to end."

"I'm not on their payroll," Anzalone said. "I don't owe the Jets anything."

As someone who has attended many a Jets game at the Meadowlands, I can confirm home-team ineptitude, coupled with frothy fermented beverages, can create a rough edge in the crowd. I'm sure Anzalone eventually will don the fireman's hat again, but for now, consider this another ridiculous subplot in another lost Jets season.